Millennials crave for exciting travel experiences and one of the ways they seek it is by engaging in outdoor sports. Whether it be paddle boarding, skydiving or caving, the more exhilarating the better. The key is to do things that really make you feel alive. Here are the new outdoor trends and the best places in the world where to practise.

Paddle Boarding

Also known as Stand up Paddle boarding (SUP) is a great way to enhance your travel experience. It requires a minimum of gear and you can practise it in the ocean, lake and river. Unlike surfing, this sport does not require waves.

When choosing your paddle, keep in mind that it must be 15 to 20cm taller than you are. You should also where a personal floating device, proper clothing and sun protection (including sunscreen and sunglasses.

This sport, originated in Hawaii in the 1960s when the “Beach Boys of Waikiki” paddled out on their long boards to take photos of tourists learning to surf. Ever since then, it´s become the fastest growing water sport today.

Surfing gurus recommend the following:

Keep your back straight, shoulders level and knees bent.

The bent elbow of the paddle should point away from you.

One of your hands should go at the top of the paddle, on the grip.

No matter what your level of expertise is, one of the best places where to enjoy paddle boarding in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. If you want warm and calm waters, head to Banderas Bay and if you´re lucky you´ll be able to see dolphins, humpback whales and sea turtles.

Caving

Cavingis also known as spelunkingor potholing and consists in exploring wild cave systems. It became popular in the 1940´s and 50´s and has been popularized thanks to new protective gear and clothes. Some see it as an extreme sport but this really depends on the cave visited and it´s conditions. However, for your peace of mind, some of the most interesting ones to explore are indeed the most accessible.

Experts suggest you never go caving alone, know your limits, have the right gear and stay warm. The Cango Caves in South Africa are some of the most impressive in the world, featuring defying stalagmites, complex pathways (illuminated for a safe tour) and adventurous tunnels for those willing to climb and crawl.

Skydiving

There’s nothing quite like “falling” to earth at 120 miles an hour after jumping from an airplane. If this is what you consider a true experience, sky diving is for you.

Believe it or not, this sport is much older than you think. In 1797, Andre Jacques Garnerin jumped from a hot air balloon with a parachute. It was re-defined during the 1800s and military personnel all around the world adopted it in the 1900s as a means to being a backup safety mechanism for airmen. Wildfire fighters also use it to reach inaccessible places.

Also known as parachuting, this adrenaline packed sport entails jumping from an aircraft at a high altitude. Once in the sky, you can learn how to perform aerial manoeuvres.

If you´re worried about the stats, don´t be. According to the National Safety Council, a person is much more likely to be killed getting struck by lightning or stung by a bee.